I’m currently majoring in environmental science but have been considering a minor in journalism. One reason is I love writing about something I’m passionate about. I’ve always loved National Geographic and have thought how awesome it would be to write for them. I know that it’s more important to be knowledgeable in the area you’re writing about so that’s why I’m majoring in environmental science. Would a minor be a good idea or just a waste of time and money? Thanks!
My school also has a science writing minor certificate which teaches how to write in scientific terms and how to interview scientists but i feel like that would be pointless beacuse I’m already majoring in environmental science where i will learn those terms.
If you’re interested in it and you have the space in your schedule, I see no reason not to do a minor in some sort of writing. Even if you decide to become a science researcher, writing skills can really set you apart in field where people aren’t good at conveying their results and their importance.
Between journalism and science writing, I would talk to professors/advisors at your university who work with these minors and what they entail. They’re your best resource for what would be the best option as a science major. I wouldn’t rule out science writing: knowing how to communicate science to a lay audience is an important skill that is often delegated to non-scientists, but I think it’s very important for the scientists themselves to learn to communicate effectively to a non-expert or non-scientific audience. (Sorry, don’t want to go off on a tangent on this - I’m just currently heading up a startup on science communication!)
That said, you mentioned time and money. If adding this minor would require you to stay longer to complete your degree, it’s not worth it. Take a few elective courses where/when you have space, but the mark of having a minor isn’t worth an additional semester.